The “Streaming Wars” are entering a chaotic new chapter, and it might actually make our TV watching experience—and our monthly statements—a little bit easier to navigate.
Paramount+, BET+ and Max (formerly HBO Max) are officially joining forces to become a “Super-Streaming” giant. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Paramount has officially bought out Tyler Perry’s 25% stake in BET+, effectively clearing the way for a total consolidation of all 3 popular streaming services.
The plan is now for the standalone BET+ app to be sunset this June. But don’t fret, if you’re a BET+ subscriber, you aren’t losing your shows. Instead, BET is about to become a dedicated “Hub” within the Paramount+ app, very similar to how Showtime was previously folded in. Over 1,000 hours of content is supposed to roll over—from Diarra From Detroit to Zatima—all moving under one roof.
We’re certainly excited about the prospect of less “app-switching fatigue,” but at the same time we’re expecting the inevitable price hikes that will likely come with this merger. Fortunately, if you’re a current BET+ user, Paramount+ says to look out for a discounted loyalty rate to join the Paramount+ “With Showtime” tier.
One thing that isn’t changing? The BET cable channel. It’s staying as-is for the traditional cable TV audience. But for the rest of us smart TV users, the future looks like one giant, unified library and we’re here for it.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter